Psychological Consequences Associated with The Intensity of Drug Use in The Adult Population of Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction. The use of illegal substances is considered one of the health problems facing the world today, given the condition caused in the population by the damage or consequences of their consumption. Method. The present investigation was carried out an analytical-descriptive cross-sectional study, working with a sample of 480 patients representing 95% of the population, intentionally selected by non-probabilistic sampling. Results. The data obtained make it possible to determine the intensity of drug use and its relationship with anxiety, depression, perceived stress and self-esteem, in a population group of adult consumers; in addition to broadening the vision of the behavioral dynamics of these phenomena. Conclusions. These results can contribute to the epidemiological monitoring of the mental condition of hospitalized patients, as well as contribute to the generation of general and specific intervention proposals for anxiety, depression, stress and self-esteem by regulating drug use.